Pancreatic cysts

Epidemiology

40% in individuals age >70.
The risk of malignancy in any given cyst is quite low (~0.01%), and many can be managed conservatively with surveillance imaging.

High risk for malignancy

  • Large size (?3cm)
  • Solid components or calcifications
  • Main pancreatic duct involvement (ie, ductal dilation)
  • Thickened or irregular cyst wall

Management

  • Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) – guided biopsy
    • Minimally invasive approach to tissue sampling for high risk lesions.
  • Surgical resection
    • May be considered for very high-risk lesions.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *